John David Fitzpatrick

John David Fitzpatrick passed away August 2, 2018, in Dallas, Texas. He was born June 17, 1947, in Palestine, Texas. Now that we’re passed the traditional facts, let’s read something that would make him let out one of his bellowing laughs…

John grew up in Greenville, Texas, the third of seven children, an altar boy, a football player and a scholar. He honed his BBQ talents in the family business, The Spare Rib B-B-Q. As friendly and outgoing as John was, he never loved giving speeches. Realizing that he could possibly be Valedictorian of his class, he thought he could avoid his high school graduation speech by ensuring he would be salutatorian. His plan was foiled because he had to give a speech anyway. John graduated from East Texas State University in Commerce, Texas, where he received a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting. His best study tactic: lots of Motown music! Though he was fulfilling his dream as a pilot in the Navy, stationed in Pensacola Florida, he still managed to find the love of his life, Frances, at East Texas State University. After a first date, which included dinner, a movie and watching flights take off and land at Dallas Love Field Airport, they married in July 1970.

John and Frances built a family in Richardson, Texas, and raised their four beautiful children. He was an accomplished entrepreneur, romantic husband and devoted Dad and Grandpa; known for his active role in his children’s lives from coaching, to being the chauffer to and from lessons and practices, never missing a performance or a game and often seen around town with his big brother, Dewey. John will be forever remembered for his generosity, quick wit, sense of humor, extensive love of music and as the ultimate cook.

He is survived by his wife, Frances; children, John Fitzpatrick Jr. (Laureen); Farah Fitzpatrick, Erin Fitzpatrick (Clinton), and Annette Lovelace (Jabulani); grandchildren, Montana Courts and Maddie Fitzpatrick; mother, Goldie Faye Fitzpatrick; siblings, Anne Haynes, Janice Brodie (Lyman), Rosalie Dennis (Jerry), Manette Bracy, Robert Fitzpatrick (Andrea), and (Linda Fitzpatrick), and a host of uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. He was preceded in death by his father, Dewey Fitzpatrick II, and his brother, Dewey Fitzpatrick III.